The use of simulators in the training environment has been around for hundreds of years. In China, during the Ming Dynasty, between 1368 and 1644, early physicians used training dolls to explain the human anatomy to medical students. Today Simulators can be found in all areas of education. From flight simulators to surgery simulators and driving simulators, and even wind surfing simulators, there seems to be a simulator for any type of activity. Although simulators greatly improve the educational process, there are both benefits and downfalls to using simulation. .
There are various types of simulators available for use in education. The types range from actual equipment to computer based models. The equipment simulators are either the actual equipment or a device created to resemble the actual piece of equipment. Some examples of these types are automotive engine simulators, student driver simulators, and flight simulators. The computer-based simulator may or may not resemble the same physical dimensions of the real piece of equipment. The actual simulation usually takes place on the computer monitor. Some types of this simulation include electronic circuits, hydraulic systems, and graphic medical simulations. There are also simulators designed that utilize computer programming to simulate the operation of the equipment. The military use mock-ups of aircraft.
Some of the benefits of simulation-based training include: .
Training at convenient times - Training time can be fully utilized. A simulator can be used at the convenience of the instructor and the student.
The student can experience rare and / or unusual problems as often as necessary. A simulator can be set up to represent unusual problems, and training sessions can be repeated as often as necessary. .
Flexibility - different levels of training can be accomplished with a simulator. Training sessions can be set up for learning fundamental principles, basic procedures, learning to deal with critical events, and for team training for crisis management, all using the same simulator.
